Mom dies after giving birth on the sidewalk

CEBU, Philippines — A 39-year-old woman died after giving birth to a baby on the sidewalk of General Maxilom Avenue in Barangay Kamputhaw, Cebu City, Wednesday morning, August 14, 2024.

The woman was identified as Jennifer Tampus, 39, from Sitio Tabay Lawom, Brgy. Tisa, Cebu City and was living on the streets with her live-in-partner and their children.

According to witnesses, around 7 am yesterday, Tampus went into labor and gave birth right on the street, but her baby was already stillborn.

One of the traffic enforcers who assisted, Sheila Marie Nicolasora, said that the baby's head had already emerged, but was lifeless.

Nicolasora further mentioned that she was unsure how long the baby had been delivered, but from her observation, the woman appeared to be in a very weak and distressed state.

Meanwhile, a nurse who was on her way to work witnessed the scene and immediately responded.

However, when Tampus was about to be taken to the hospital, she refused to be transported.

"Mao to naay nurse niabot murag gipush gamay mao to nigawas. Paggawas sa bata mao to patay najud ang bata unya ang umbilical cord gikan sa tiyan, wapa mogawas," said Nicolasora.

Tampus even signed a waiver from the medical team that came to rescue her in order for her not to be taken to the hospital as per her request.

According to one of Tampus’ daughters, her mother was only seven months pregnant.

Tampus had 12 children in total—eight from her late first husband and four from her live-in partner. –/ATO (FREEMAN)